Description
The C5 Insert Connector, also commonly referred to as the IEC 60320 C5 connector, is a standardized power connector widely used in low-voltage appliances and portable electronic devices. It belongs to the IEC 60320 family of appliance couplers, which defines specifications for connectors that enable the safe connection of equipment to the mains supply.
General Description
The C5 Insert Connector is a female appliance inlet typically found on power adapters, laptop chargers, projectors, gaming consoles, and some small appliances. It mates with the corresponding C6 male connector (appliance coupler plug), providing a secure and polarized connection to ensure safety and reliability during power transfer.
Design and Construction
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Shape and Pin Configuration:
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The C5 connector features three circular slots arranged in a triangular pattern. Two are parallel to each other, while the third is offset centrally beneath them, creating a cloverleaf or Mickey Mouse silhouette.
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These slots correspond to line (L), neutral (N), and earth/ground (E) conductors.
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Material Properties
Component Material Properties Housing Thermoplastic (UL94V-0) Flame-retardant, high dielectric strength Contacts Brass or Phosphor Bronze High conductivity, durable Contact Plating Nickel / Tin plated Corrosion and oxidation resistance Ground Pin Integral to housing Ensures reliable earth connection -
Mounting Type:
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Available in panel-mount insert form for integration into equipment housings.
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Snap-in or screw-mount versions ensure mechanical stability within the chassis.
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Locking Mechanism:
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The design is inherently polarized, meaning it can only be connected in the correct orientation.
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While not locking in the same sense as IEC C13/C14 connectors, the snug fit provides sufficient retention force to prevent accidental disconnection.
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Electrical Specifications
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Rated Voltage: Up to 250 VAC (depending on regional standards and application).
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Rated Current: Typically 2.5 A to 10 A. Standard rating is 2.5 A for most applications, but higher-current versions exist.
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Frequency: 50 Hz / 60 Hz.
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Dielectric Withstand Voltage: Tested up to 2,000 VAC between live and neutral to earth for one minute without breakdown.
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Contact Resistance: Less than 30 mΩ, ensuring minimal power loss.
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Insulation Resistance: Greater than 100 MΩ at 500 VDC.
Thermal and Mechanical Properties
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Operating Temperature Range: -25 °C to +70 °C (standard grade), with high-temperature versions rated higher.
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Insertion/Withdrawal Cycles: Minimum 5,000 mating cycles, ensuring long-term durability.
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Retention Force: Typically 10–30 N to resist accidental unplugging.
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Flammability Rating: UL94V-0 or equivalent, depending on housing material.
Safety and Standards Compliance
The C5 Insert Connector complies with the following international standards:
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IEC 60320-1 (general requirements for appliance couplers).
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IEC 60320-2-2 (specific requirements for C5/C6 connectors).
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UL 498 / CSA C22.2 (North American certification).
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ENEC / VDE (European safety approvals).
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RoHS / REACH compliance for environmental safety.
Applications
The C5 Insert Connector is widely used in portable electronic devices where a compact and grounded power inlet is necessary. Common applications include:
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Laptop and notebook AC adapters.
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Projectors and beamers.
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Game consoles (e.g., Xbox, PlayStation models).
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Small office equipment such as desktop docking stations.
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Medical equipment (in low to medium power categories).
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Portable printers and networking devices.
Advantages
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Compact Form Factor: Ideal for portable devices.
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Safety Grounding: Provides protective earth connection, ensuring safety in Class I appliances.
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International Standardization: Universally recognized, simplifying global product distribution.
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Durability: High cycle endurance for repeated insertions.
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Versatility: Compatible with detachable C6 power cords available in different plug types worldwide.
Check out Our Other Product: C13 Insert Connector

